Robert Eugene White
Robert
Eugene White passed away in his Moyie Springs
home on April 26, 2012. Memorial services were
held May 5 at the Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter Day Saints in Bonners Ferry.He was born to Blaine and Gwen White of Moyie Springs, November 22, 1947. He was the eldest of four; sisters Amy Sibitney and Gail Reoch and brother George White.
Bob attended Evergreen Elementary from first to eighth grade, taking part in 4-H while working with the cows on the family dairy farm. He graduated Bonners Ferry High School in 1966.
Joining the U.S Navy in 1967, he found his passion as an electricians mate aboard the USS Maddox. Serving his country he earned several medals including the Vietnam service medal. He was honorably discharged in October, 1969.
Returning home, Bob found employment in Kellogg, Idaho, working at the Bunker Hill and Sunshine mines. There he completed his electrical apprentice and journeyman courses.
It was there in the Silver Valley that he met his wife, Jeanette.
Bob knew from the first moment they would be together forever.
After dating and many visits with Jeanette’s mom, Jerry, Bob asked for approval to marry Jeanette. He always swore she said yes because he wouldn’t take no for an answer. Jeanette would tell you it was his amazing eyes.
They were married May 4, 1970.
Years later the couple was blessed with daughter Clarinda, a year later their son Chandler was born, and four years later the family welcomed Collette.
The family eventually moved to Metaline Falls, Washington, where Bob worked for Le High Portland cement plant until it eventually closed. There he also became a lifetime member of the American legion.
Bob then moved his family to Boundary County, where he owned and operated White’s Electric and Heating, a commercial and residential company. He worked on many places in the community, such as Gene’s OK tires, the Bonners Ferry Log Inn, U.S Forest Service and several local dairy and hog farms. He also worked on many area homes.
Try as he might, Bob tried to fight the mining fever, but eventually went back to work in the mining industry, finding employment with T.I.C , CDK, and Red Path, working in many states including Washington, Nevada, and Alaska
Meanwhile, Bob’s family grew. His son Chandler married Candalisa and the couple blessed Bob with grandsons Michael, Franklin, and Nicholis and granddaughters Clarissa, Ashlie, and Brooklyn. Bob’s baby girl Collette also blessed him with granddaughters Alaina, and EmmaLea and new son in law Wayne Ferguson.
Bob and his family enjoyed fishing and he could often be found at his favorite spots, Robinson, Perkins, and Bonner Lakes and the Moyie River. He also enjoyed hunting up on Goat Mountain and on the Saint Joe River.
Family and friends are invited to sign Bob’s book at www.bonnersferryfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Bonners Ferry Funeral Home.